Capula, a leading integrator of industrial automation and control systems, has made a significant leap forward in its production capabilities by installing the world’s leading automated storage and retrieval system (ASRS), the Hänel Lean-Lift. Designed and installed by Industore, experts in automated warehouse solutions in the UK and Ireland, this state-of-the-art investment marks a major milestone in Capula’s ongoing commitment to smart digital operations and optimising production efficiency.
Optimising Storage and Retrieval with the Lean-Lift: Capula’s new Lean-Lift is a high-tech vertical lift module (VLM) specifically designed to optimise the storage and retrieval processes. By fully utilising the facility’s height, the Lean-Lift maximises storage capacity, offering an impressive 105m² of storage space within just an 8.3m² footprint. This advanced AS/RS (automated storage and retrieval system) significantly improves the organisation of stored parts, saving both space and time in retrieving materials, which is critical for optimising warehouse space and enhancing overall productivity.
Matthew Haubus, Head of Production at Capula, commented on the investment:
“As well as optimising our storage, the Lean-Lift provides significant benefits to the way in which we manage our inventory. It automatically retrieves the shelf containing the requested item and places it in a single, convenient, and ergonomic position. This safe design minimises physical strain for our employees when retrieving materials, improving health and safety, and reducing the likelihood of injuries, accidents, or stock breakages, to name a few. The built-in ‘Pick to Light’ system clearly highlights the exact part(s) required each time, removing picking errors – which is particularly useful when so many parts look alike, and speed of pick is so critical.”
Leveraging Advanced ASRS Technology:
Capula’s investment in the Lean-Lift underscores its commitment to leveraging cutting-edge intralogistics technology to drive operational excellence and maintain a competitive edge in the industry. The installation of the Lean-Lift not only maximises storage efficiency but also creates valuable additional production space, enabling Capula to enhance its service offerings and improve workflow efficiency. Industore’s Hänel Lean-Lifts at Capula are primarily used for storing electronic components for electrical panel building. The integration of HänelSoft, Industore’s proprietary Warehouse Management System (WMS), provides Capula with full, real-time visibility of all stock, regardless of its storage location. This advanced WMS enables Capula to recognise seasonal trends, improve forecasting and purchasing decisions, and maintain clear separation between consignment stock and specific project stock, ensuring efficient and error-free inventory management. This approach is part of a broader strategy for improving inventory management with AS/RS and supporting storage optimisation for manufacturing.
From Traditional Shelving to Goods-to-Person (G2P) Automation:
Before implementing the Lean-Lift, Capula relied on traditional shelving for storing components. This method consumed a significant amount of floor space and required considerable time to retrieve parts, often leading to a trade-off between speed and accuracy. The Lean-Lift, with its goods-to-person (G2P and previously “G2M” or “goods to man”) delivery system combined with integrated Pick to Light technology, has eliminated these issues, providing a faster and more accurate picking process than ever before. These automated picking systems are especially valuable in industries such Capula’s – electronics and logistics, where precise inventory management, space optimisation and speed or throughput are crucial. Industore’s Lean-Lifts also feature a unique extended safety bypass. In the unlikely event of a breakdown, such as a sensor malfunction, the lift can continue operating, ensuring that production is not interrupted. Furthermore, with Industore’s nationwide engineer coverage, repair requirements and annual services can be conducted quickly and efficiently, minimising downtime. The Lean- Lift’s access management features provide Capula with detailed records of inventory movements, enabling better control over who has access to specific stock trays based on authority levels.
Sam Cummins, Industore’s Project Manager for the Capula Project, shared his thoughts:
“It’s always a privilege working with forward-looking, ambitious companies like Capula. The Lean-Lift is already providing the company with enormous benefits, particularly in terms of space improvements and stock control. To that end, conversations are ongoing to introduce a second lift in the coming months. I look forward to working with them again.”
Embracing Innovative Storage Solutions for the Future:
Capula’s adoption of the Lean-Lift system from Industore is a testament to its forward-thinking approach and dedication to operational excellence. By embracing innovative storage solutions and digital transformation, Capula continues to strengthen its position as a leader in industrial automation and control, ready to meet the evolving needs of its customers across various sectors, from manufacturing to healthcare. With automated storage and retrieval systems (AS/ RS), Capula is set to maintain its competitive edge and continue delivering high-quality solutions to its clients, paving the way for a more efficient and productive future.
